WILMINGTON, Ohio — On any given weekend at Roberts Arena, three miles south of Wilmington, one can catch a prestigious horse show of some kind. Here one will find classes of Western, hunters, jumpers and dressage for all ages, from all states, competing in four separate arenas. Large cash premiums are offered.

Realizing competition is not for every horse enthusiast, and simply tired of all the high stress of the arena, Sue Lamb took it upon herself last month to hold a fun show for youth at the Clinton County Fairgrounds, just three miles from Roberts Arena. A few ribbons are handed out, but more important is the guarantee of lots of laughs and fun.

“Young riders are supposed to have fun, not get stressed out,” said Lamb, who serves as president of the Clinton County Chapter of the Ohio Horseman’s Council (OHC).

According to Lamb, just as there are select soccer and select baseball venues, there are venues like Roberts Arena and others which are draws for highly competitive horses and riders. She wanted to have a more relaxing atmosphere for young equine enthusiasts who didn’t want all the pressures and expenses of a glamorous horse show.

“This show is all about relieving stress. It’s more laid back than most competitive shows,” she said. “In fact, before the kids enter the ring we tell them to have fun, and we believe having fun is what it’s all about. We tell them they don’t have to be the fastest and it’s not all about the win. Competing with no pressure is our aim.”

This year’s Fun Show included numerous competitors and 19 events. “Simon Says” drew lots of laughter as horse and rider had to do exactly what the public address announcer said. Even more entertaining were the youth and adult stick-horse races.

Most events were ones not found at competitive horse shows. “Apple Under the Chin” involved a rider performing tasks on horseback while keeping control of an apple situated under their chin. During a flag race riders were timed as they placed flags in various sand-filled barrels in the outdoor arena. The stakes race involved making figure-eights through barrels under the watchful eyes of judges and a timekeeper.

Other low-key events included the keyhole race, catalog race, open poles, jackpot obstacle, easy gaited riding, open trots, easy gaited pleasure, open English and open Western.

Other chapters of the OHC are providing similar fun in the ring and on the trail:

•The Guernsey County OHC will hold its 11th annual Poker Run at Salt Fork State Park Oct. 6. Call 740-498-8222 for information.

•Preble County OHC will hold a State Trail Ride at Hueston Woods State Park Oct. 13-14. Call Scott Jordan at 513-796-2608.

•The Butler County OHC will hold Horse Daze Oct. 20 at Sebald Park in Middletown. Call Katherine Williams at 513-756-0588.